Install new operating system - you have to be aware of that
If you want to install a new operating system on a Windows PC, there are a few things you need to consider. In this practical tip, we explain exactly what you need to look out for when changing from Windows 7 to Windows 8.
Are all important data backed up?
In order to prevent loss of your data, you should back up all data such as pictures, office documents, music, games, passwords or bookmarks list of the browser on an external storage medium such as an external hard drive or a USB stick before reinstalling. It is advisable to back up the data with a backup program. You can either use Windows' own backup program or use a third-party program. One such program is the Backup Service Home tool. Instructions for data backup under Windows XP can be found here.
Does my computer meet the minimum system requirements for the new operating system?
Each operating system has specific hardware requirements that should at least be met so that the system runs stably. If you are not sure which hardware is in your computer, it is recommended to install the free tool CPU-Z. Here you will find instructions on how to use the tool to read the data from your hardware.
- The system requirements for Windows XP can be found here.
- The system requirements for Windows Vista can be found here.
- The system requirements for Windows 7 can be found here.
- The system requirements for Windows 8 can be found here.
Do I have enough free space?
As of Windows Vista you need at least 15 GB of free hard disk space, for Windows 7 and 8 it is even 16 GB (32-bit version) or 20 GB (64-bit version).
- Therefore, before installation, check that you have enough space available on the hard disk or partition on which you want to install Windows.
- If you don't have enough free space, you should remove unnecessary data or unused programs to free up space.
- If your hard drive is partitioned, you can take up free space on a partition and thus enlarge the desired partition. You can find instructions on partitioning here.
A 32-bit or a 64-bit operating system?
Most Windows offshoots come in two different versions: 32-bit and 64-bit. Explanations of the technical differences and instructions on how to check your computer for 64-bit suitability can be found here and here.
Download all necessary drivers
Newer Windows operating systems automatically install most drivers during the installation, but it is recommended to download the necessary drivers for the graphics and sound card before the installation if there are any problems. It is best to save the downloaded drivers on an external storage medium. If you have a branded computer, the drivers are usually available for download from the manufacturer's website.
The installation of the new OS
After following the previous steps, you can install the new operating system. Make sure your computer is connected to the Internet during installation so that Windows can download the updates you need during installation. You should have the hard disk or partition formatted by Windows during the installation in order to remove remaining stock of the old system.
After installation: Install software
When the installation is complete, you should first install an anti-virus program, the drivers and the important Windows updates. You can then install the other programs and set up your new system. We have put together useful tools for you that make sense after an update to Windows 8, for example, in the Windows 8 Starter Pack.